On the 4th of June 2026, the South African Learner Support Organisation (SALSO) celebrated World Environment Day at the Mndeni Skills Centre in Protea South. The three-hour awareness campaign brought together 41 students from the Computer Literacy, Agriculture, and Catering course streams to learn about air pollution, environmental sustainability, and practical ways to protect the environment.
The primary objective of the campaign was to raise awareness about air pollution, its causes, and its impact on human health and the environment, while promoting sustainable practices that can contribute to cleaner air and healthier communities.
The awareness session was delivered through a combination of interactive presentations, discussions, practical demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Students participated in meaningful conversations about environmental issues and were encouraged to ask questions and share their experiences. A demonstration of an air quality monitoring application showed participants how they can track air quality levels in their communities, and many students downloaded the app to continue monitoring air quality after the event.
One of the standout moments of the campaign was the tour of the agriculture students’ farming area. During the tour, students demonstrated how they apply sustainable farming practices and explained how they produce their own fertilizer using vegetable peels supplied by the catering students.
Another highlight was the donation of ten packs of vegetable seeds to the agriculture students, supporting their ongoing farming activities. Following the donation, all participants took part in a seed-planting activity, creating an opportunity for students from different course streams to work together while applying the environmental concepts discussed during the session.
Overall, the campaign was highly successful in achieving its objectives. Not only did the campaign increase the awareness of air pollution and environmental sustainability, but it also showcased practical, community-driven solutions already being implemented at the centre. Through education, collaboration, and action, the campaign inspired students to play an active role in protecting the environment and promoting healthier communities.
